Ah, the beauty of comfort food! Let me tell you, there’s something magical about a warm bowl of soup that just wraps you in a cozy hug, especially when the weather turns a little chilly. Whenever I prepare this **Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup**, I can’t help but feel nostalgic. It takes me back to those long winter nights spent at my grandma’s kitchen table, eagerly waiting for her hearty soups to simmer away, promising a delicious dinner at the end of the day.
What I love most about this recipe is how effortlessly it comes together in the Crockpot. I can throw everything in there in the morning, run my errands, and return to a home filled with the most mouth-watering aroma. Plus, it’s creamy, comforting, and packed with flavors that will definitely warm you up from the inside out!
What’s in Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup?
Ground Beef: The heart of this soup! I typically use lean ground beef for a bit of healthiness, but feel free to go for your favorite type. It adds such rich flavor!
Potatoes: The star ingredient! I love using medium potatoes because they break down beautifully and make the soup creamy without needing too much heavy cream.
Carrots: These add a lovely crunch and a touch of sweetness. I usually chop them into small pieces to ensure they cook evenly.
Onion: Nothing adds depth to a dish like the aromatics of a sautéed onion! They create a wonderful base flavor for the soup.
Garlic: Because more garlic is always better, right? It brings a savory punch that I can’t get enough of.
Beef Broth: This serves as the foundation of our soup, infusing all the ingredients with rich, savory goodness.
Heavy Cream: The secret to making this soup ultra-creamy! It makes the whole thing feel luxurious and oh-so-cozy.
Seasonings (Salt, Black Pepper, Dried Thyme, Paprika): The perfect blend of spices that enhance the whole dish without overpowering. Paprika gives a lovely hint of smokiness!
Fresh Parsley: Not just for garnish! It adds a fresh, herby kick that balances the richness of the soup.
Is Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup Good for You?
Let’s face it; we all want to indulge sometimes, but it’s good to know a little about what we’re eating!
Ground Beef: It’s a great source of protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair. Just be mindful of the fat content, especially if you choose a fattier meat.
Potatoes: Packed with nutrients, potassium, and dietary fiber, potatoes make you feel full and satisfied. Keep the skins on for extra nutrition!
Carrots: Rich in beta-carotene, carrots are great for your eyesight and can contribute to a healthy glow!
Heavy Cream: While it does add richness, keep in mind that it’s calorie-dense. You might opt for a lower-fat cream to lighten it up without losing too much creaminess.
But hey, life is too short not to enjoy a warm, creamy soup now and then!
Ingredients List
– 1 lb ground beef
– 4 medium potatoes, diced
– 2 carrots, chopped
– 1 small onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups beef broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp paprika
– Fresh parsley for garnish
This recipe serves about 6 hearty bowls of delightful soup, perfect for sharing or meal-prepping!
How to Make Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup?
1. In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Make sure to drain any excess fat, unless you want to fry your taste buds!
2. In a Crockpot, add the browned ground beef. Now, toss in the diced potatoes, chopped carrots, diced onion, and minced garlic—all your veggies!
3. Pour in the beef broth, and stir everything together. Time to season it with salt, black pepper, thyme, and paprika. Mix it up!
4. Cover the Crockpot and let those delicious flavors meld together! Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the potatoes are tender and begging to be devoured.
5. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the heavy cream. Let it warm through and become all creamy and dreamy.
6. Give it a taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Did I mention tasting is the chef’s secret for perfection?
7. Serve this beauty hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley for the perfect finishing touch.
Serving Suggestions and Fun Twists
This soup is delicious on its own, but it pairs perfectly with crusty bread or a side salad for a full meal. For a fun twist, feel free to experiment! You could add in some frozen peas or celery for extra veggies. I’ve even tossed in some corn for a sweet touch. Who says soup can’t be versatile?
So, there you have it—a delicious, hearty **Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup** recipe that I think you’re going to fall in love with. I hope you give it a try and make it as part of your cozy nights! And if you do, please let me know how it turns out. Happy cooking, friends!
